Frequently Asked Questions

Using the power of light to prompt and support the healing process.

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LILT (Low Intensity Laser Therapy) Laser therapy uses the power of red and infrared light to induce and support the body’s healing process. Cells in the affected muscles, tendons, ligaments and tissues easily absorb the energy from both types of light. Absorption as a result of photon bombardment of various bio-molecules in the cell resulting in the transformation of light to biochemical energy. This is a cumulative effect and requires sufficient stimulation in order to initiate response.

Absorption of laser light leads to a series of physiological reactions that restores cell structure back to normal. The end result of low intensity laser irradiation is the restoration of normal function of the cell unit. This leads to the acceleration of the healing processes, decreased inflammation and the elimination of pain.

It should be noted that normally functioning cells are not adversely affected by the irradiation. In contrast to other therapies, LILT is curative rather than simply modulating symptomatology.

Insurance coverage for laser therapy varies depending upon the insurance plan. However, if you have extended coverage for massage therapy procedures, you are likely covered. The ALRC does not do direct billing. Laser therapy can also be charged to Health Spending Accounts for those who have one.

During treatment most patients will not feel anything except the light weight of the treatment arrays. Some may feel a tingling sensation due to the increased blood flow or metabolic activity within the area being treated. After treatment the patient may have an exacerbation of pain for a varying period of time, usually subsiding within 24 to 48 hours after the treatment.If this occurs, utilize pain medication IF needed, and/or ice and let the therapist know prior to the next treatment.

Laser therapy is effective in treating a number of types of conditions, including sports and repetitive stress injuries, arthritis, neck and back pain, sciatica, migraines and a number of dermatological conditions. Laser therapy also improves recovery from soft tissue and muscle injuries.

Laser light absorption as a result of photon bombardment of various bio-molecules in the cell results in the transformation of light into biochemical energy. This is a cumulative effect and requires sufficient stimulation in order to initiate response.

Typically 5 to 20 treatments varying from 30 to 60 minutes in duration are required.

The average treatment times range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition.

“Radiation” is not a word to be scared of! “Radiation” is often misinterpreted as it is also used to describe radioactive materials and ionized radiation. The use of the word “radiation” in terms of laser light is merely an expression of energy transmission.

Although Laser Therapy is not a cure for arthritis, the anti-inflammatory potency of laser therapy is ideal for the treatment of chronic conditions such as arthritis, degenerative disc disease and other autoimmune disorders.